Escape to cities beside Kathmandu
Nepal is paradoxical in the sense that despite its small size, it is very diverse. When we speak of diversity, we mean diverse as per culture, people, and climate which we can found on the cities beside Kathmandu. It is this diversity that attracts people from across the globe. Some find the call of mountains irresistible and in the same way, some people just can’t say no to the spirit of adventure. Whether you want thrilling activities or a cultural awakening, Nepal has it all
The commencing point for most of the treks/tours in Nepal is the Kathmandu valley. It is also the capital of Nepal. As Kathmandu is the first thing that travelers see when they visit Nepal, thus, they are instinctively guided to explore Kathmandu. Kathmandu is beautiful in its own right but there are other cities too that travelers can visit. This blog shall provide travelers with a description of cities beside Kathmandu that you can visit.
Pokhara
The most favored and flavored destination besides Kathmandu is undoubted, Pokhara. This beautiful city is the initiating point for numerous treks that occur in the Annapurna region. The city houses the famous Fewa and Rupa lakes along with other lakes. As a result, it is given the moniker “The city of lakes”.
There is so much to do and see in Pokhara. For starters, boating in the Fewa and Rupa lake never goes out of fashion. A hike to the World Peace Pagoda will undoubtedly test your limits. Travelers will be enchanted by the roaring Davis Falls and left amazed when they hear the waterfall dwindle the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. The bustling nightlife at Lakeside is something to relish and who knows, you might meet someone there.
Pokhara is one of the biggest cities in Nepal, consequently, you can travel easily through road and air. It sits just 200 km away from Kathmandu. If you want to spice up your stay in Nepal through visiting cities beside Kathmandu, then Pokhara is a place to be.
Bandipur
Bandipur is one of those cities that have an ancient vibe that is simply phenomenal. This quaint town stands on top of a hill right on the beginning phase of the Mahabharat range. Consequently, you are greeted with greenery and fresh air. Bandipur is home to antique Newari settlements that trace their origins back to Kathmandu. In the past, Bandipur was a bustling trading place, and to facilitate trade, Newars from Kathmandu migrated to Bandipur.
Like other major cities, Bandipur has its jewels too. The Siddha Gufa Cave amazes travelers with its lavish collection of stalactites and stalagmites. Head to Tundikhel which is a huge ground. From here, one can observe the glorious peaks that decorate the blue horizon. Some of them include Manasalu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Lirung. If you are into culture, then don’t forget to visit the Thani Mai temple and Kharga Devi temple.
Bandipur is connected with the Prithivi highway and can be accessed easily. It is one of those cities beside Kathmandu that is perfect for a weekend getaway.
Daman
Nepal has a hilly terrain and it is important to realize that these hills have secrets. Daman is a quaint hill station that is yet to be fully understood. It is one of the few places near Kathmandu that witnesses snowfall during winter. Daman sits approximately 55 km from Kathmandu and can be easily accessed via road.
Daman sits more than 2000 meters above sea level and due to its height, you can witness scintillating views of Dhaulagiri and other mountains from the view tower. The Shree Rikheshwar Mahadev temple is another interesting point to visit in Daman. This holy temple is made in the name of Lord Shiva and it witnesses thousands of visitors. It is believed that the temple grants the wishes of those who ask it with a pure heart.
For travelers that are in search of greenery and natural wonder, it is those cities beside Kathmandu that have it.
Gorkha
Gorkha sits 20 km north of Abu Khaiereni and is considered one of the historically and naturally gifted places in Nepal. Its history stems from the fact that the founder of modern Nepal, “Prithivi Narayan Shah” was born here. He led a campaign to unify Nepal. For this reason, travelers can visit the ancient seat of Shah kings by visiting the remains of the Gorkha Durbar. The nearby Gorkha museum shall also satiate your thirst for everything related to history.
Manakamana temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and it is believed that this temple grants wishes. There are other temples too that you can visit in Gorkha that will give you an idea about life and culture. The Manasalu Circuit trek takes place in Gorkha and it will take you through the unperturbed wilderness of the Manasalu region.
All things considered, there are many places to see and visit in Nepal besides Kathmandu. These quaint towns have their lifestyle and culture that cannot be seen elsewhere. So, if you are on the lookout for places to venture, then be sure to visit the above-mentioned places.